Smithsonian Channel to launch across all major UK TV platforms

Something a bit different is coming to TV screens next week, with the arrival of new free-to-air factual service Smithsonian Channel.
Following months of testing on satellite, the UK version of the Smithsonian Channel will officially become available across all major platforms on 12th February 2019.

Viewers will be able to tune in on Sky channel 195*, Freesat 175, Virgin Media 295 and via Freeview on channel 99^. The channel will have an HD option on satellite and cable, but will only be available in standard definition on Freeview.

Smithsonian Channel originally launched in North America. With its expansion to the UK and Ireland, viewers will be able to see a wide range of non-fiction topics, including history, travel, air and space, science, nature and pop culture. Inspired by the world-famous Smithsonian Institution – the world’s largest museum and research complex, which was founded when Englishman James Smithson donated his fortune to America for “the increase and diffusion of knowledge” – and combined with the storytelling prowess of SHOWTIME and CBS, Smithsonian Channel has become widely recognised for the quality of its non-fiction programming. It is the youngest channel to have won an Emmy.

Tom Hayden, President of Smithsonian Networks said:

Smithsonian Channel has already resonated powerfully with audiences in Canada, Singapore and Latin America, so we can’t wait to bring our award-winning and varied slate of programming to the UK audience.

The new channel will cater for viewers interested in more high-brow factual programming in contrast to some of the more cheaper, reality/factual hybrids that many US channels tend to be known for.